Alex Dow Field at Nichols Arboretum

Displays & Natural Areas at Nichols Arboretum

Explore a remnant prairie and savanna ecosystem as well as adjacent oak woods to see Michigan as it was around the time of settlement. Many of the prairie species found here have been eliminated elsewhere in the region. These plants are well adapted to the periodic fires that were part of the ecosystem as well as Native American management practices. Controlled or prescribed fire is currently being used to combat invasive species and encourage native species as part of our work in restoration ecology.

In July 1943, 36 acres of land were donated to the University of Michigan by Detroit Edison. This addition to Nichols Arboretum was named “Alex Dow Field” as a lasting memorial to Dow, who served as president of Detroit Edison from 1912-1940. Dow helped shape Southeast Michigan’s public utility, Detroit Edison, forerunner of today’s DTE Energy. In memory of Alex Dow, President, Detroit Edison, 1912-1940. Rededicated by DTE Energy, 2010.

If you would like to help support our natural areas please contact Meredith Olson, director of development: merolson@umich.edu; 734.647.7847.